James Rodríguez: Manchester United "deep in talks" over player
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Manchester United are "deep in talks" over the signing of Colombia star James Rodríguez from Real Madrid, according to a report in the British media.
The Independent says the Premier League side have intensified conversations over James, with the 25-year-old earmarked to replace Wayne Rooney, who on Sunday completed a return to first club Everton.
James eager to seal swift Real Madrid exit
As AS revealed on Saturday, James is keen to sort out a transfer before Tuesday, to avoid having to join Los Blancos' tour to the United States, which begins then.
His departure has been accelerated by the imminent arrival of Real Betis midfielder Dani Ceballos, who is set to undergo a medical with Real on Monday.
Head coach Zinedine Zidane had already asked the club to listen to offers for James and, with Ceballos also at the Frenchman's disposal, his hopes of game time would be likely to recede further.
The attacking midfielder has struggled for regular football under Zidane, featuring for just 1,823 minutes (only 33% of Real's total action) last season.
Breakdown of Morata transfer won't affect James talks
The Independent adds that United's decision to abandon a move for Real striker Álvaro Morata and turn to Romelu Lukaku won't affect discussions over James.
Real are thought to be after about 70m euros for the ex-Banfield, Monaco and Porto man, although this weekend's report says United are aiming to agree a lower fee.
